Uganda Budget Travel

Fast Facts

Currency
Ugandan Shilling (UGX

Dialing Code
256

AIDS

Uganda HIV/AIDS basic precautions include the following:
• Don't ever share needles or syringes
• Practice safe sex at all times
• Equipment should be sterilized
• If you require self-administered injections, take an adequate supply of your own needles
• Avoid tattoos, acupuncture treatment or body piercing from suspect or unsterile operators

Airports

Birdlife

As a country boasting the largest density of birds per square kilometer, Uganda birdlife is rich and diverse. Many species can be found across key wetlands, rainforest, mountains, lakes and woodlands, with a range of endemic and migratory species to be seen. As a birding destination Uganda is one of the most beautiful and popular regions across Africa

Conservation

Uganda conservation is essential to rebuild the city after years of civil war and violence. Key conservation issues include deforestation, habitat loss, poaching, pollution and land abuse. Some of the current conservation projects in Uganda include chimpanzee and gorilla protection programs, protected areas of forest, nature reserves and replanting projects.

Culture

Uganda culture includes the following:
• Food and drink is an important social ritual
• Music and dance plays a key role in social gatherings and expression
• Art is a fairly large cultural pastime
• Architecture is an interesting aspect of Kampala and other urban area culture

Customs

Uganda customs allows for free import of the following for passengers over 17 years:
• 200 cigarettes, 1/2 lb. of tobacco or a combination of 1/2 lb. of tobacco products
• 1 bottle of spirits including liquors or wine
• 1 pint of perfume and eau de toilette

Health

Uganda health facilities are generally sub-standard, with very limited number of hospitals, plus lack of facilities for serious illness or injuries. Medication is extremely expensive, and many hospitals are over-crowded. It is best to take out comprehensive travel insurance for your Uganda travels, and bring basic supplies such as cold medicine, headache pills or diarrhea pills.

Languages

Malaria

Money

Uganda money and banking information is as follows:
• Banking hours are Monday to Friday from 08h30-14h00
• Banks include Citibank Uganda, Stanbic bank, Trans Africa bank and National Bank of Commerce
• Transfer services include Western Union, Swift Link and Money Gram
• Credit cards are accepted at some hotels or large stores, however not all operators accept cards
• It is best to exchange money at the airport as soon as you arrive

Phrase

Plants

Surrounded by beautiful rainforests and densely covered mountains, it is no wonder that Uganda plant life is lush, green and plentiful. The country is adorned with a rich array of plant life, making it green and fertile. National parks and lake areas are especially green, with a range of trees, ferns and other leafy plants to be found.

Population

A 2007 UN estimate puts the Ugandan population at 30,900,000.

Religion

Safety Tips

Uganda safety tips include the following:
• Uganda is generally safe for travel, however basic precautions should be taken
• Pick pocketing, robbery and muggings have been known to occur, so be on guard
• Keep valuables out of sight and secure in a moneybag under your shirt
• Avoid travel to areas near borders of Sudan, DRC or other areas
• Avoid travelling to northern Uganda, where the Lords Resistance Army is in occupation

Visa Requirements

Uganda visa requirements are as follows:
• Most foreign nationals require a visa to enter Uganda
• Some nationalities may not need a visa, including certain African countries - speak to your local embassy for more information
• A valid passport of 6 months minimum is required
• Visas are valid for 3 months (90 days) of date of application
• Return tickets plus proof of sufficient funds are required to enter Uganda

What To Buy

What to buy for Uganda safaris:
• Uganda guidebook plus bird and wildlife species guide and map
• Sleeping bag and camping mattress if you are on an overlanding tour
• First aid box with basic supplies and medications
• Plug adapter for UK and US visitors
• Insect repellent and malaria medication

When To Go

When to go to Uganda:
• The coldest months of the year are June and July
• The hottest months of the year are October and February
• Rainy seasons are from March to May, and late September to January
• It is cheaper to travel during wet months, with many travel discounts on offer
• Roads are in worse condition and trekking is often hard during these months however

Wildlife

Uganda wildlife is rich and abundant, with a number of key game reserves found across the country, including the famous Queen Victoria Park. Gorillas are one of the biggest wildlife fascinations in this region, and tourists come from all over the world to see some of the country's rarest primates. Other game includes elephant, crocodile, lion, leopard, buffalo and many antelope species.